Industry

SEMA Webinar: What to Know Before Conducting an EV Conversion, August 9

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.01.23) – Electric-vehicle (EV) conversions are a growing opportunity in the automotive aftermarket. For shop owners, technicians and product developers who work on these builds, it’s crucial to clearly understand the safety practices and various EV components involved, as they are critical parts of the process.

SEMA members are invited to the “Skateboard Platform for Electric Vehicles” webinar on Wednesday, August 9, at 11:00 a.m. PDT to learn about the complete process of an EV platform. Attendees will hear from Adam Roe, founder, CEO and product architect of Zero Labs Automotive, as he teaches the components associated with an electrified vehicle and EV conversion, as well as the component names, integration, hazards and diagnosis that are present when converting a gas-powered vehicle to electric. 

Participants will walk away with a thorough understanding of EV conversions from the ground up and engage with Roe as he addresses detailed questions from the audience. Register today!

The 2023 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit Prepares Companies for a Successful Event

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LAS VEGAS, NV (07.31.23) – The 2023 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit kicked off Tuesday, July 25th, in the LVCC upper South Hall meeting rooms and concluded on Wednesday.

Exhibitor Summit days started with breakfasts for the various groups.

During the event atendees had the opportunity to meet and work directly with representives from the SEMA Show. SEMA Membership and Council, Freenman, and other show partners. SEMA Show exhibitors brought plans and booth renderings to get ideas from SEMA Show staff member to ensure a successful 2023 Show.

Robin McNeal, Nakamichi National Sales Manager, was on site for the Exhibitor Summit. “I live in Las Vegas and have attended four previous SEMA Exhibitor Summits. Attending the summit was an opportinity to interact with SEMA staff and learn of any changes with Freeman Decorating’s procedures. Spending time with other exhibitors was also a chance to get a sense of the overall overall business climate in the automotive aftermarket marketplace. From my view it was positive time spent for Nakamichi to maximize the ROI at the 2023 SEMA Show ”

Robin McNeal, Nakamichi National Sales Manager

McNeal concluded “We will have a 20’x20’ booth in the LVCC North Hall showcasing our 2024 product lineup and are setting meeting plans for members of our rep network to receive their input for getting 2024 off to a well planned start.”

The 2023 SEMA Show runs October 31st through November 3rd in Las Vegas, NV.

Discover New Avenues of Business Growth with the 2023 SEMA Market Report

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (07.31.23) – Understanding the market, as well as who your customers are and how to connect with them, is imperative for driving business. Automotive aftermarket companies need reliable data and insights to make informed decisions as the industry evolves.

The “2023 SEMA Market Report” provides an overview of the size and scope of the specialty-equipment market in the United States to help SEMA members make better-informed decisions in the next year and beyond. Released in June 2023, the report includes findings on how much consumers spent, where they shopped for specialty-equipment parts and accessories in 2022, and automotive trends and economic factors influencing the market.  

“Understanding purchasing patterns and preferences can help businesses gain a competitive advantage,” said SEMA Director of Market Research Gavin Knapp. “The report is the ultimate guide for businesses seeking to navigate the industry. With this report, they can refine their approach, identify new opportunities and carve out a distinctive plan for what they need their business to focus on.” 

The report is free to SEMA members and includes sections on market sizing, consumer profiles, industry indicators and vehicle information. Learn what the data means and how it can help your business by downloading the report at sema.org/research. 

CE Global Pro Adds Apollo Window Film to the Rep Firm’s Lineup in the PNW

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BEND, OR (07.28.23) – Industry Veteran Glenn McCarthy jumped back into the 12-Volt world this past May when he formed CE Global Pro, a PNW Representative operation, to service Oregon and Washington states.

Glenn McCarthy in the CE Global Pro office in Bend ready to hit the road with Apollo Window Film.

“We’re on the road and connecting with dealers throughout Washington and Oregon. The weather is hot and the timing is perfect to announce that Apollo Window Film has been added to the brands in our bag” McCarthy related.

JC Carnes, National Sales, stated “Apollo Window Film is very happy to announce CE Global Pro has been added to our company’s rep network in the US. To have Glenn McCarthy, and the newly formed CE Global Pro firm, as the newest addition to our company’s growing list of rep firms is another step for growth. CE Global Pro is making an impact across the Pacific Northwest and will connect dealers with Apollo Window Film’s vehicle, resident/office and paint protection film products.”

Apollo Window Film joins 12volt brands in the CE Global Pro bag that include Cicada Audio, MTX, Epsilon, AlloyGator and NavAtlas. Look for more to come from CE Global Pro on the road in the PNW.

Visit apollowindowfilm.com for more.

Oracle Lighting Announces DYNAMIC ColorSHIFT Headlights for 2018+ Ford Mustangs

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METAIRIE, LA (07.28.23) – Oracle Lighting has announced its new DYNAMIC RGB+A Black Series Headlights (part number: 8204-332) for the 2018-23 sixth-generation Mustang. The new Black Series headlights feature a matte black housing, satin black bezel and smoked marker lights for meaner, more athletic styling while incorporating the safety, functionality and durability ORACLE Lighting products are known for.

The DYNAMIC ColorSHIFT headlights feature over 200 pre-programmed moving patterns, all controlled via a free smartphone app allowing for multiple color patterns through the daytime running lights. In addition to the pre-programmed features, custom designs can also be created via pixel editing in the app as well as static color control and a white daytime running light mode.

These complete replacement headlight units pack a ton of innovative features into an easy-to-install package, including sequential FLOW turn signals, demon eyes, dynamic halos, tri-bar daytime running lights and smartphone control. The DYNAMIC RGB+A Black Series lights are compatible with the following 2018-23 Ford Mustang trim levels and models:

2018-23 EcoBoost/EcoBoost Premium
2018-23 GT/GT Premium
2019-20 Bullitt
2022-23 Mach 1

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/4VTlm8YKqH8

“The Mustang DYNAMIC ColorSHIFT lights serve as complete replacement headlights and are 100% plug and play,” said Justin Hartenstein, ORACLE Lighting director of development. “With the Black Series, we wanted to enhance the factory look while also incorporating the functionality and innovation ORACLE Lighting has become synonymous with in a complete package that will help Mustang enthusiasts add that unique touch to their ride.”

The DYNAMIC RGB+A Black Series Headlights are available now at Oraclelights.com and select retailerswith an MSRP of $1,449.95. The new offering joins Oracle Lighting’s Mustang-specific lighting options for 2018+ models, including the ColorSHIFT DRL Upgrade with Halo Kit and Sequential Turn Signals and LED Headlight Halo Kit, among other accessories.

For more information on Oracle Lighting and its complete product line, please visit www.oraclelights.com, call (800) 407-5776 or email info@oraclelights.com.

SiriusXM with 360L to Make Volvo Debut in All-New and Fully Electric Volvo EX30 and EX90

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NEW YORK, NY (07.27.23) – SiriusXM with 360L – SiriusXM’s most advanced audio entertainment experience – will make its Volvo debut in the all-new and fully electric 2024 Volvo EX30 and EX90 SUVs.

“Delivering a personalized and intuitive user experience is central to our purpose at Volvo Cars. The debut of SiriusXM with 360L in our next-generation fully electric EX30 and EX90 SUVs is an important step in this regard with the potential for continuous improvement over time,” said Mike Cottone, President, Volvo Car USA and Canada.

“Volvo Cars and SiriusXM have enjoyed a long and successful history of working together and we are excited to continue to deliver SiriusXM’s audio entertainment programming as a standard feature across Volvo Cars’ lineup of vehicles,” said Gail Berger, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Automotive Partnerships, SiriusXM. “We are also thrilled to debut our latest generation platform, SiriusXM with 360L, to Volvo Cars’ drivers in the new, all-electric EX30 and EX90.”

SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite and streaming content delivery into a single, cohesive in-vehicle entertainment experience, which provides drivers and their passengers with more choice, better discovery and a more personalized listening experience.

The SiriusXM with 360L experience in Volvo cars will deliver SiriusXM’s full complement of in-vehicle content and features as well as the ability to receive over-the-air updates that will allow drivers to enjoy the latest features from SiriusXM. 

Volvo Cars’ customers purchasing or leasing SiriusXM-equipped vehicles in the United States receive a three-month trial subscription to the SiriusXM Platinum Plan. The SiriusXM Platinum Plan delivers SiriusXM’s full lineup of varied content, plus access to SiriusXM outside the vehicles on the SXM App and on connected devices and speakers in the home.

SiriusXM’s music channels are expertly curated, ad-free, and deliver an exceptionally wide array of audio choices for listeners. Covering every genre across many decades, channels feature popular tracks and deep cuts from popular artists, as well as introduce listeners to new and emerging musicians and bands. Artist-branded channels from Hall of Fame and iconic talent feature original content that can’t be heard anywhere else. SiriusXM’s concept-based channels, such as Road Trip Radio and Yacht Rock Radio, or its many activity and mood-based channels, are designed to deliver a personalized music experience that fits the moment.

SiriusXM offers the most extensive lineup of professional and college sports in audio, news from around the country and the world from many sources and political perspectives, the scoop on the latest from the world of entertainment, hours of stand-up by the funniest comics and more.

For more information on all the programming that SiriusXM offers, and all the ways subscribers can listen, visit www.SiriusXM.com.

The 12volt News Show… Showcase Your Company’s New Products Right from Your Company HQ!

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SHREVEPORT, LA (07.27.23) – In today’s world, and the 12volt world, it’s hard to find positive news. The 12volt News, and the 12volt Central Studios staff members, work to deliver positive industry news each business day.

The 12volt News Show was created as a vehicle for companies across the 12volt industry to showcase their new products to members of the 12vol industry. The 12volt News Show is a venue to let industry members know about new products from manufacturers, distributors and service companies. From the convenience of a company’s office it can happen with no travel, freight, booth or other expenses.

12volt distributors can showcase their various brands in their custom 12volt News Show Studio.

Once a company selects a new product for the 12volt News Show it is so easy. Standing against a blank wall a staff member holds a product chest high. A second company member Snaps the image and Txts the image to 318 469 2526. Include information about the product and desired means of contact. Presto it can happen. A 12volt Central Studios staff member will respond to complete the process. That is the 12voltSTP Tool at work.

Matt Bund held a speaker box in the hallway of the Q Power HQ in Houston, had an image snapped. Had the image sent by txt to 318-469-2526. Presto.

The 12voltSTP Tool and The 12volt News Show work hand-in-hand with the 12volt News to deliver positive news to members of the 12volt industry.

A number of 12volt News Show Packages are available.

For more contact mike@12voltnews.com.

CE Global Pro Adds NavAtlas to the Rep Firm’s Lineup in the PNW

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BEND, OR (07.26.23) – Industry Veteran Glenn McCarthy jumped back into the 12-Volt world this past May when he formed CE Global Pro, a PNW Representative operation, to service Oregon and Washington states.

Patrick Brooks shows the wide selection of NavAtlas products, in the Brea CA studio, that CE Global Pro will be representing in the Pacific Northwest.

“I am thrilled to be doing what I love, which is selling, and am excited to be able to do it in these picturesque states”, McCarthy stated. For over 30 years Glenn has been in the sonic reproduction arena. Starting in Japan and spanning several continents over the last 3 decades.

Glenn McCarthy is set in the CE Global Pro office in Bend OR to hit the road with NavAtlas.

NavAtlas has announced CE Global Pro will represent the brands’ growing product lineup in the Pacific Northwest to penetrate 12volt operations as well as, UTV and other applicable retail outlets.

Patrick Brooks, NavAtlas National Sales Manager, stated “NavAtlas is excited to have Glenn McCarthy and the newly formed CE Global Pro firm, as the newest addition to the NavAtlas list of rep firms. CE Global Pro will handle the NavAtlas Powersports line in the Pacific Northwest.”

Continuing, Brooks offered “Glenn and I have known each other for years and NavAtlas is excited to have him pounding the trails in Washington and Oregon for NavAtlas. NavAtlas joins 12volt brands in the CE Global Pro bag that include Cicada Audio, MTX, Epsilon and AlloyGator. Look for more to come from CE Global Pro on the road in the PNW.

Visit navatlas.com for more.

Automobility Announces Nationwide DSP and OEM Integration Trainings for Audison Forza Product Line

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MONTREAL, CANADA (07.26.23) – Automobility is thrilled to announce National DSP (Digital Signal Processing) and OEM integration trainings for the renowned Audison Forza product line. As part of our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional service and support.

“We understand the importance of staying ahead in the dynamic world of automotive audio. That’s why we have taken this significant step to equip our dealers with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the rapidly evolving industry. With these training sessions, we aim to empower our partners and provide them with the tools necessary to enhance their customers’ audio experience”,said Phil Camirand Product trainer at Automobility.

Phil Camirand, Automotive Product Trainer, conducting a Forza training at the Automobility head office in Montreal. 

These DSP and OEM integration trainings are designed to cater to individuals who are new to the field or looking to strengthen their foundation. We will cover key concepts and practical techniques related to digital signal processing and seamlessly integrating Audison Forza products with the OEM head units in vehicles. By participating in these sessions, dealers will gain invaluable insights into optimizing audio performance, overcoming challenges, and delivering unparalleled satisfaction to their customers.

To access more details about these trainings and reserve your spot, we encourage all our dealers to get in touch with their dedicated representative. Our representatives are ready to answer any questions and provide comprehensive information regarding the schedule, location, and requirements for these exciting training opportunities.

“We firmly believe that knowledge is the key to success. By investing in our dealers’ education and skill development, we are reinforcing our commitment to delivering the highest standards of service and innovation in the automotive audio industry. We are confident that these DSP and OEM integration trainings for the Audison Forza product line will open up new avenues of growth and provide our dealers with a competitive edge in the market.”Said Rob Nelson ,President of Automobility.

Members of the Automobility sales team are setting up dates for dealer visits which we would provide the Installers hands-on experience with the tuning process. Dealers interested in attending Automobility trainings may contact Phil Camirand to get signed up for an in-person OEM integration and DSP training lesson with Automobility. Contact Phil by email at Phil@automob.ca.

Wet Sounds Partners with Specialty Marketing as Exclusive Distributor for Mid Atlantic, Metro and Upstate NY, and New England States

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ROSENBERG, TX (07.25.23) – Wet Sounds has announced its strategic partnership with Specialty Marketing as the exclusive distributor for the Mid-Atlantic States, Metro and Upstate NY, and New England States territories. This new collaboration will further strengthen Wet Sounds’ presence and enhance distribution capabilities in these key regions.

Specialty Marketing has a longstanding reputation for delivering exceptional service and support to their customers. With a dedicated team of experienced professionals, both inside and outside sales, Specialty Marketing has consistently demonstrated their commitment to customer satisfaction. Their extensive industry knowledge, coupled with their well-established network, makes them an ideal partner for Wet Sounds’ expansion into these territories.

By appointing Specialty Marketing as the exclusive distributor, Wet Sounds aims to provide customers in the Mid-Atlantic States, Metro and Upstate NY, and New England States with easier access to their innovative high-performance audio solutions. With an unwavering focus on quality and performance, Wet Sounds offers a wide range of products designed to enhance the boating, powersports and outdoor audio experience.

“We are thrilled to have Specialty Marketing join our distribution network as our exclusive partner in the Mid Atlantic, Metro and Upstate NY, and New England States,” said Ray Woodall, Eastern Regional Sales Manager of Wet Sounds. “Their strong market presence and commitment to customer service align perfectly with our core values.”

Specialty Marketing will provide comprehensive sales and support services to retailers, dealers, and installers within their respective territories. They will work closely with Wet Sounds to ensure a smooth transition and to maintain a seamless supply chain, enabling customers to access Wet Sounds’ products efficiently and with ease.

This exclusive distribution agreement between Wet Sounds and Specialty Marketing signifies a significant milestone in both companies’ growth strategies. Together, they will forge a stronger presence in the marine and powersports audio market, ensuring that customers in the Mid Atlantic States, Metro and Upstate NY, and New England States can access Wet Sounds’ cutting-edge products with ease.

For more information about Wet Sounds and their industry-leading audio solutions, visit www.wetsounds.com. To learn more about Specialty Marketing and their distribution capabilities, please visit www.specialtymarketing.com.